Mrnalini Rao, PsyD
As human beings, we are not born with problems; rather, we live in a world that often reinforces the need to conform. My goal as a therapist is to help you reshape that narrative for yourself, to break free from unhelpful patterns shaped by childhood and societal pressures. I bring my authentic, genuine self to each session, creating a space for deeper connection and empowering you to reclaim your agency.
I believe in reducing the power differential between therapist and client, fostering a collaborative environment where you can advocate for your own healing. There is no hierarchy in our work together; you are the expert on your lived experience, and I am here to guide and support you. My aim is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can use me as a tool for healing.
Together, we will work on dismantling internalized homophobia, shame, racism, and the impacts of capitalism, while navigating challenges and embracing self-acceptance at every stage of your journey. Therapeutic change is not linear, and I support a process of self-reflection that destigmatizes shame and embraces every feeling and human experience.
I have a large capacity to hold complexity, allowing space for you to reorganize your narrative in a way that feels true to you. I am committed to providing culturally sensitive, sex- and gender-affirming care, embracing diversity in all its forms. My approach includes multiple perspectives—psychodynamic, relational, feminist, decolonizing, and health-centered models like Health At Every Size (HAES)—to meet the unique needs of each individual. I also encourage the use of intuitive tools such as mindfulness, writing, music, art, tarot, and oracle cards to connect to your inner compass. I am passionate about working with teens, adults, and couples from diverse gender, sexual, and cultural backgrounds, with clinical interests in identity struggles, relationship dynamics, Ethical Non-Monogamy (ENM), kink, Therian identities, body-image work, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, LGBTQIA+ support, and cultural and racial issues.
In addition, I provide supervision for clinicians to empower them in their journey. As a
supervisor, I am collaborative, supportive, culturally sensitive and offer a growth-oriented
space for professional and personal growth. My supervision model is integrative using a
developmental, feminist, decolonial, multicultural and psychodynamic approach.
I also offer comprehensive diagnostic testing services for teens and adults, including ADHD
testing, Social and Emotional personality testing, and general diagnostic clarification.
Assessments are completed via a hybrid model (telehealth and in-person). These evaluations
are designed to gain a clear understanding of an individual’s emotional, cognitive, behavioral,
and academic functioning. Whether for diagnostic clarification, treatment planning, learning
accommodations, or personality assessment, each evaluation is tailored to meet the unique
needs of the client. I use standardized, evidence-based testing tools and provide detailed
reports with clear, actionable recommendations.